Emmaus Bolton is using Volunteers’ Week, 1-7 June, to celebrate the impact of our local volunteers and appeal for new people to join our team.

Emmaus Bolton supports 22 formerly homeless people by providing a stable home, meaningful work, and support for as long as they need it. Volunteers are needed to help at our Derby Barracks base, new Recycling Centre and in Lucie’s Pantry social supermarket.

Tony Stephenson, Director at Emmaus Bolton, said: “We’re looking for people who want to use their time, skills and passion to drive our charity forward and make a real difference to the lives of people who have been homeless. Volunteering with Emmaus Bolton is a great way to meet new people, get involved with the local community, and learn new skills. No two days are the same and we can promise a fun and rewarding volunteer experience.”

Our social enterprise is spread over the site of a former military barracks and is home to Bolton’s largest charity shop, selling second-hand furniture, household goods, clothing, toys, plants, books and upcycled items. From our site, we also run Lucie’s Pantry, a social supermarket that provides food and household essentials to people in need.

Sue Green, a volunteer at Emmaus Bolton, said: “I was in awe of Emmaus Bolton when I first visited as a customer and immediately knew that I wanted to be part of the charity. I typically volunteer one day per week and my role is varied. I can usually be found in Lucie’s Pantry, helping customers choose food items, or knee deep in the bric-a-brac sorting room where many treasures can be found.

“Since retiring early, I have gained so much from my experience volunteering for Emmaus Bolton. I have made so many friends and it’s a real pleasure working alongside everyone. I’ve always felt welcomed and included and have a sense of purpose and belonging. My advice to others thinking about becoming a volunteer is to just do it. I feel like I am the fortunate one to have found Emmaus Bolton.”

Volunteers’ Week is a chance to celebrate and say thank you for the contribution millions of volunteers make across the UK. Volunteers benefit charities and groups across the country, but volunteering has been shown to improve volunteers’ wellbeing too. Volunteering can also help people gain valuable new skills and experiences, and boost confidence.

We currently have a variety of roles on offer and are appealing for people to help with social media and online sales, recycling, bric-a-brac sorting, administration and serving customers of the pantry.

Find out more and get involved as a volunteer with Emmaus Bolton today.